US halts all immigrant visa applications amid tightening restrictions

Move by state department to limit access is part of Trump's crackdown on both lawful and undocumented immigration

All US immigrant visa applications have been paused by the Trump administration as the state department moves to tighten restrictions and limit access to applicants who they deem could end up relying on US assistance, a state department official confirmed Tuesday.

The agency launched the initiative at all embassies and consulates in early August, according to the official and visa appointments had to be adjusted to accommodate in-depth training", according to the official. The state department has been working on updated guidance and training since early this year, to ensure all consular officers are fully equipped to evaluate every visa applicant comprehensively and consistently", they added.